Message from the Dean
Psalm 1:3 states the righteous ones “are like trees planted by streams of water, which yield their fruit in its season, and their leaves do not wither. In all that they do, they prosper.” The same psalm states the wicked are blown around by the wind with nothing to keep them grounded. The difference between the two is roots. Roots are always apparent and thus are easily ignored, but the deeper the roots, the more secure the tree.
Theological education is designed to grow your roots, to deepen critical analysis of yourself, your world, and your traditions. At the same time, you are also deepening your relationships with God, others, and the world. Theological education is more than a skill set. Yes, you will learn to teach and preach and participate with others in more genuine ways, but you will also be transformed in mind and soul to think deeply about our world and its needs and how you can lead others into transforming the broken places into moments of healing and grace.
Here at New Brunswick Theological Seminary, we offer a program of prophetic ministry in a unique setting. We believe until brokenness is named, it cannot be healed. Our degree programs teach students to recognize and name the evils of power and privilege in all its forms in the church and society. We are committed to being not just a diverse community, but a community that actively names and learns the skills to dismantle power and privilege wherever it is found. We believe this action is the demand of Gospel ministry.
We come together to do this work of Christ in an intimate environment. Our classes are small and taught by talented professors who are both scholars and practitioners. Students are as diverse as our New Jersey and New York communities. As I walk through the school, I see groups of students talking. These groups reflect multiple denominations, cultures, ethnicities, and ages. Some of the students attend full-time, and some are part-time. Some know exactly why they came to seminary and others are still seeking the path God has for them. We don’t just talk about diversity; we live it together.
We are looking for students to welcome to our home. Students who wish to learn leadership with Gospel purpose and who will leave here to serve in many places, from the pulpit to the non-profit company. Come and visit us, and you may find this is your home too.
Blessings,
Rev. Beth LaNeel Tanner, Ph.D.
Vice President & Dean of Academic Affairs
The Norman and Mary Kansfield Chair of Old Testament
Apply Now! |
---|